File: totally not yied.jpg (122 KB, 553x662)

122 KB JPG

You've been traveling away from your group for... It feels like it's been a very long time, but you've somehow made it through unscathed.

The same can't be said for Vaga's, er, friends, one of whom killed by the now-dead Peshkatz who was chasing his party, one chewed through by a surprise horde of Dracozombies, one who disappeared in that same fight (presumed dead), and three surviving, all failing to comfort Vaga himself.

"Lex" had a long conversation with General Corneria and Logan, and left town again shortly afterwards. People have been avoiding the topic of the "Aunt Lexi" comment Kia made, lest Quidel get thrown up into a fit about former queen Alexia.

At the moment, you, Quidel, Victoria, Yancy (that one arm still looking quite useless), and Vaga are sitting in a meeting with the mage general and Logan yourselves.

"So," Logan says in an attempt to re-break the ice, "how was prison?"

>A. No comment
>B. Fantastic
>C. Horrific
>D. Educational
>E. Write-in

>>42152981
>B. Fantastic
>Got to kill a war criminal and took her sword.

>>42153008
"It was just fantastic," you say with no amount of the sarcasm that would usually accompany such a statement, "I brought a war criminal to the only justice she could understand and got a cool sword out of it."

"And then we had to kill everybody else because of you and that Lars dastard," Quidel says. Is he still upset about that?

"You did what needed to be done. Unsavory details are unavoidable in the lives we lead," Corneria says, "and anyway, I'm just... Really happy to have my children back." Even while she's trying to keep serious, a smile keeps seeping onto Corneria's face. "Honestly, even if the circumstances were what they were, I cannot thank you enough for what you've done."

>A. It's an honor
>B. It's not that big of a deal
>C. You mean getting kidnapped?
>D. Write-in

>>42153320
>B. It's not that big of a deal
>If you really want to thank me though, Find a way to get us back to Neir without Ahua or any Dain spies knowing.

>>42153357
"Honestly, it's... I really don't see it as that big of a deal."

"Oh, but it is. Even if not for my sake, then what all that you've experienced, learned could mean for Teege as a whole, especially combined with what Miles has told me..."

"Er, could you just find a way to get us back to Rakche without any of Dain's people knowing?" You look at Vaga, "or, uh, anyone loyal to Ahua, I guess."

"I doubt that there's any way in hell Dain isn't aware that you're coming home, but I would ensure your safe travels anyway. As for Ahua... Well, it's actually faster to get between here and Rakche if you don't take the detour through the Garou Mountains."

"Which you would remember if you paid attention," Quidel says.

"A lot of things have happened in a short time, alright?" Victoria raises her voice a bit, "people... might forget things easily."

"Regardless," Corneria says, I do know of something I could do for you. It would require some effort and feedback on your end, however..."

>A. You're listening
>B. You're interested
>C. No need
>D. Sounds like a hassle
>E. Write-in

>>42153655
>A. You're listening
Though it does.
>D. Sounds like a hassle

>>42153702
Second

>>42153702
>>42153745
"It... sounds like it could be a hassle, but I'm listening."

Corneria nods, "I have a sort of... A sort of hunch about you, that you could benefit greatly from a bit of a change in class."

"You're not saying what I think you are, are you?" Quidel perks up.

"Well, Quidel, if what you think I mean is 'show Ellen down the path of magic,' then yes. Relying on your sword alone won't do you good forever, especially since war is clearly on the horizon. I feel like I could teach you at least the basics very quickly."

>A. That sounds great
>B. You think I can learn that?
>C. You're not so sure...
>D. Not interested
>E. Write-in

>>42153945
>D. Not interested
Hell no! We're going for hero class!

>>42153945
>Not interested

>>42153945
>>B. You think I can learn that?
(Being a Grandmaster of sorts could be cool)

>>42154016
>>42154088
"Er, sorry, General Corneria, I'm... not exactly interested in learning magic, potential or not."

"Very well, I won't force you," Corneria says, sighing and frowning, "but I hope you reconsider quickly if you do so at all. I've arranged for you and your friends to be transported to Rakche tomorrow, and after that I'm frankly not sure when I won't be busy, or even when we'll meet again. I'm taking the rest of the day off, though, so... I'll be available today."

You nod, and after that she and Logan dismiss your lot. Yancy actually questions you on the way out, "personally scouted out for training by the mage general, and you refuse? You must certainly be confident in your swordsmanship."

>A. It hasn't steered me wrong so far!
>B. She has a point, but not like that (seek out Gorman)
>C. ...on second thought, I probably should (return to Corneria)
>D. You'll think about it
>E. Make some comment about his arm (specification preferred but not required)
>F. Write-in

>>42154294
>A. It hasn't steered me wrong so far!
Remember we can't advance to Dread Fighter if we don't stay on this path!

>>42154294
>>A. It hasn't steered me wrong so far!

>>42154294
>>D. You'll think about it

>>42154548
Why? I really want to know why you want Ellen to be a mage when Ellen has been a pure strength character since the beginning and has always relied on her sword arm and it hasn't failed her yet.

>>42154322
>>42154367
"Well, it hasn't steered me wrong so far," you say, patting one of your sheathed weapons.

"Still, though, I wonder what made her so... Certain that you would be both easy to train and worthwhile in doing so... I don't really have time to discuss this, though. You can't tell from my robes, but this arm is pretty much disintegrating, and I should... Probably get it removed before it spreads, since they said it couldn't be healed after a point-blank deadly breath." Chuckling, he says, "and I would rather you not try your hand at amputations with a devil sword, so this is where we part ways."

You take a seat in the Tower of Longevity's lobby. Vaga just wordlessly leaves for a room that had been prepared for him, Quidel says something about going to get his horse (your suspicions about it running back to town were warranted after all), and Victoria follows Vaga's example of wanting to rest somewhere nice again at long last, taking a warp pad to her own room.

>A. Return to Corneria and accept her offer
>B. Look to Gorman for further training
>C. Seek out/follow someone (specify)
>D. Sit and think for awhile
>E. Write-in

>>42154585
>B. Look to Gorman for further training

>>42154585
>B. Look to Gorman for further training
Let's stick to our path.

>>42154585
>>E. Write-in
Uh... call out everyone and see if they're interested in getting some food?

>>42154585
Octo why are you trying to push us to be a mage when it's been said in multiple votes already that we won't be one?

>>42154680
I didn't want to shut the option out. I realize that it won't happen and don't particularly care if it doesn't, but I feel like someone would complain if I suddenly stopped giving the option before a clear point of no return.

>>42154717
Kind of feels like you're trying to get us to pick it though by putting it in every option, It's already had it's chance Octo and it lost several times.

>>42154717
Apparently you can't win at all as someone is complaining on why you're trying to force us to be a mage.

>>42154762
>>42154786
I'm not forcing anything. This was essentially a way of saying "here are your promotional paths, either pick one or take some time to think about it."

You won't be prompted to take her training again now that the Hero branch just won.

>>42154842
>I'm not forcing anything.
I can see that. But one bitchy anon doesn't.

>>42154842
Okay, I was just saying that it felt like you were trying to shove it down our throat is all, Glad you rectified that mistake on my part.

>>42154608
>>42154640
So while you're still rather certain you don't have any interest in magic, you still think there is some point to the mage general's words.

You feel like you'll hit a ceiling soon, whatever you say outwardly, and you need help to break that ceiling. Of course, who better to help with this than the one who taught you to swing a sword?

Gorman is fairly easy to find, simply enjoying the daylight.

"Need me for something?"

>A. I need to break past my limits
>B. Show me how to wield an axe
>C. Just explain Corneria's offer/how it led you to him
>D. Ask if you can start training again
>E. Write-in

>>42154943
>A. I need to break past my limits
>D. Ask if you can start training again

>>42154943
>A. I need to break past my limits

>>42155058
>>42154965
"I... feel like I'm getting increasingly close to the best I can be in my current state."

"Ellen, that isn't entirely-"

"So I would... I would like to resume my training with you, Gorman."

A moment of silence passes before he replies, "and here I thought you weren't associating with me as a student any longer. Since I ditched you and Lambert back in the gap, I would have understood..."

"No, no, it's just... There hasn't been a good time, and now... Now seems like a perfect time to start."

Gorman nods sternly. "You're absolutely right, Ellen. Even in my absence, you've clearly gotten much stronger, but even that isn't going to be the end of it."

"So you'll train me? I mean, I know that you must still have business here as a mercenary, but..."

"My final client was general Corneria, and you and your friends' retrieval was my assignment. That's done, I've been paid, and... Well, frankly, I'm tired of sand, sand, sand. I'll travel back East with you and the rest, but any time we're not moving, eating, sleeping, anything that isn't required to stay alive, we'll be training. When we get to Rakche, we'll see how you've progressed."

>A. Thank you, Gorman
>B. Yes, master
>C. I understand completely
>D. All of the time?
>E. Write-in

>>42155252
>A. Thank you, Gorman
>Just like old times huh?

>>42155279
Second

File: HeroGBA.gif (1 KB, 76x68)

1 KB GIF

>>42155279
>>42155323
"Thank you, Gorman," you smile, "this'll be just like old times, hmm?"

"I suppose, in a way. I'm already excited to start training you again, even if my other student has had a bit of a makeover." You can't tell if he was joking, bitter, or what about Bovis.

As Gorman promised, you spend as much time on the trip home training yourself up as possible, being exhausted by the end of every day and only passingly interacting with Vaga, his remaining hunnies, Victoria, Quidel, Kia, or the Great Miles.

Of course, you are in the same general area, so you at least passingly learn that Quidel, of all people, ended up being the most helpful towards Vaga in his current state. You find this out during a very brief period of time in which he actually asks for some advice on the basics of swordsmanship, promoting himself into a Nomadic Trooper in the basic effort it took to learn how to wield a sword passably (he would need to refine his mounted combat himself, however).

Victoria tried to talk to you a few times, though your tiredness or busy status left you only able to make token gestures of acknowledgement. She understood.

Gorman showed you how to wield an axe, and then showed you how to wield an axe well.

You are also, of course, stronger, bulkier, very slightly lighter on your feet.

Of course, even with Gorman's emphasis on balance, a few things must shine out. What did you end up focusing on the most?

>A. Strength
>B. Defense
>C. Speed
>D. Skill
>E. Axe proficiency (Axe skill at B-Rank equivalent)
>F. You were genuinely mostly unbiased, but you did spend more time than expected just talking (Increase support with Gorman to A)
>G. Miscellaneous techniques (Resistance and Luck go up)

>>42155780
>A. Strength
HUGE!

>>42155780
>A. Strength

>>42155780
>Skill.
We can get buff on our own and any training helps speed, but techniques are things we should learn

>>42155780
>A. Strength
Must get swole!

Maybe we can get Zoe to teach us the Lance too

>>42155948
No can do mate, It goes against class usable weapons.

>>42155965
Were not in the game, we can be flexible

>>42156075
....We've been using the game rules since the beginning anon, Please actually read past threads before you post.

>>42155780
>>D. Skill

>>42155812
>>42155838
>>42155896
Yeah, Gorman's training has always put an emphasis on physical strength and endurance, attempts to be balanced or not. In the process of bulking up, as a side-effect your gains in defensive parameters are aided as well, and you can lift heavier swords and axes with ease. In Biff's own words, you would be at the C-Rank with them by the end, from an E-to-S scale.

With one day approaching before you actually make it to Rakche, you and Gorman end up calling it a night. Training has certainly been... Intense, and you feel close to your first ever mentor again for the first time since he left.

"How this time has passed," Gorman says, wiping sweat from his brow, taking a seat on a rock. "Tell me, how do you feel?"

>A. Tired
>B. You haven't noticed much difference
>C. Invigorated
>D. Powerful
>E. Write-in

And...

>F. Collapse on the grass
>G. Sit in the grass
>H. Keep standing
>I. Write-in?

>>42155780
>>G. Miscellaneous techniques (Resistance and Luck go up)
We should had gone with this for the devil sword.

>>42156147
>C. Invigorated
>H. Keep standing
Ellen is not weak.

>>42156147
>>C. Invigorated
>H. Keep standing

>>42156147
Alive
>H. Keep standing

>>42156168
>>42156180
>>42156199
"I feel invigorated, Gorman! More powerful than I've ever been, like I have no limit now!"

"Feeling or not, nobody is limitless," he says, "I'm heading to sleep now. You get yourself to rest at a decent hour for when we get to Rakche. It wouldn't be right for you to be the strongest you've ever been while looking a half-asleep mess."

You nod, but whether or not you actually manage to is a question.

>A. Nah, call it a night
>B. See if anyone else is up
>C. Just walk around awhile
>D. Write-in

>>42156352
>B. See if anyone else is up
Vaga, We need to have a talk with him.

>>42156376
Would be cool of us to do. Going with this.

>>42156415
I meant a talk as in, Man the fuck up death happens kinda stuff, You know don't freeze up in a battle, Mourn after the battle is won kinda stuff.

>>42156376
>>42156415
After Gorman retires, you spend some time looking around your campsite, seeing whoever else might be up.

Turns out Vaga is the only one available. He's still somewhat broody, but not to the catatonic extents of days ago.

"Oh, Ellen. When'd you start socializing again?"

Doesn't stop your friend from being an asshole, though.

>A. Say something (specify)
>B. Leave, if he's gonna be like that
>C. Write-in?

>>42156551
Maybe we could actually talk to him before riding up on our high horse

>>42156639
>Sit down across from him and look him directly in the eyes, Then ask him "Why'd you freeze up?"

>>42156639
What happened to make you such a pussycat?

>>42156698
>>42156705
"I've still been thinking-"

"You were thinking about me?" He halfheartedly grins in his typical teasing fashion.

"You know what I meant, Vaga."

"No, I don't. You were just about to tell me."

You rub your temples a bit before continuing, "I was just... I'd never seen you freeze up like that."

That certainly puts a damper on his mood. He says, "yes, I've seen people die, we've all taken lives, I've lost fellow garou before this. I guess it's... never been my fault before."

>A. It still wasn't
>B. What do you mean
>C. You only made it worse by freezing up
>D. Remain silent
>E. Write-in

>>42156927
>A. It still wasn't
>C. You only made it worse by freezing up

>>42156927
>>B. What do you mean
Let's listen first.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>42156944
>>42157026

>>42157170
"It still wasn't your fault, Vaga. You DID make it worse by freezing up from the very start, but that doesn't mean that you-"

"They were willing to die for me, Ellen. I mean, I'd already known that, but... Until Elisa bit it, none of us really grasped exactly what that sort of sentiment MEANT. They were listening to me, they had only even left the mountains because I'd asked them to, and... I'm responsible for Elisa, for Fidelia, for Andrea being killed. Like you and I have said, I couldn't do anything when confronted with this awful truth as a card-carrying coward."

>A. Get over it
>B. Work this out yourself, Vaga
>C. It wasn't your choice
>D. Yeah you're responsible
>E. Say something else (write-in)

>>42157352
>A. Get over it
>So you're just going to let their deaths be in vein by sulking and throwing yourself a pity party? Man the fuck up Vaga, You're going to rule your clan one day are you not? That means you'll have to make even harder decisions someday, So are you just going to keep hiding like a coward or are you going to do something?!

>>42157352
Can't change the past, you can only learn from your mistakes, and make sure they don't happen again.
Besides, I saw the girls fighting, they chose not to run and knew what could happen

>>42157404
Second

Thread ending soon? Doesn't seem like there's much activity in this quest on fridays.

>>42157426
>>42157415
>>42157404
"Vaga, you're just going to sulk like this, let their deaths be in vain so you can be this self-pitying? How can you hope to take the position of leader from your older sister's deceiving paws like that? You're important to your people, you're going to make hard decisions and have blood on your hands as a leader, and it's not like everyone can just be a coward forever. Your friends knew this, and they easily could have just not shown up, or ditched us, and nobody would've been surprised. You already know exactly what I think about you, but can you let them down by sulking forever?"

"You're right," he says before pausing, "but understand that we're not all as driven as yourself. I'll remember them, grieve for them, but... I think we'll be okay in the end. For the moment, however, the four of us just... Need to let what's happened soak in."

>A. Leave him be for awhile
>B. Just hang around Vaga for some time, let the topic drop
>C. Say something else (specify)
>D. Write-in

>>42157692
>B. Just hang around Vaga for some time, let the topic drop

>>42157668
Unless attention dies down completely, I'll let it run its course as it usually does.

>>42157760
Are we getting back to the others in this thread or the next?

>>42157760
And I mean like "literally nobody responds to anything even after a time extension" attention dying down.

>>42157840
There's a good amount of time left in the thread, so it's likely unless you spend a LOT of time hanging around camp tonight.

>>42157851
Well, if it counts, I just got back from my walk. Gotta walk the dog. Especially when the sun begins to go down.

>>42157871
I'll vote in the next reply. I'm good with B.

>>42157717
You just spend the next little while hanging around with Vaga, dropping the subject and instead harmlessly shooting the shit for a bit.

After a few minutes' small talk, he asks again, "how do you do it? Er, always seem so fearless, I mean."

>A. I'm just not afraid
>B. I have faith in my strengths
>C. I refuse to be inactive
>D. Someone has to be
>E. I don't know
>F. Write-in

>>42157851
Sorry. I'm here but working

>>42157948
>A. I'm just not afraid
>E. I don't know
>I think there's just something wrong with me honestly, Like i was born without the ability to fear.

>>42157948
>E. I don't know, I just have been for as long as I can remember

>>42158001
>>42158016
Seconding both.

>>42157948
>>F. Write-in
"Well, it helps when you always have your back against the wall. Besides that, I've lost nearly everything a while ago. I never spent very much thinking about what I lost, but perhaps I've lost so much that I've became someone different. Dunno."

>>42158001
>>I think there's just something wrong with me honestly, Like i was born without the ability to fear.
I don't like that line

>>42158055
I usually tweak write-in dialogue to feel more in-character without missing the points of the message anyway.

>>42158088
But we weren't born without fear. We've felt afraid before, like when we got knocked out and taken hostage

>>42158119
What? Ellen wasn't afraid during that.

>>42158141
Are you kidding, that line is so ridiculously unbelievable, and I refuse to believe that at no point in our life threatening adventures did we not feel afraid. Even veteran warriors feel fear.

>>42158232
Well guess what, Ellen is literally fearless, You don't like it you can get the fuck out, It's been one of the main things about her.

>>42158263
He's going to bitch to the QM about it being out of character for Ellen. I'm calling it.

>>42158308
HAH, That's funny since it has been a main part of Ellen's character since the beginning.

>>42158001
>>42158016
>>42158039
"I'm just... never afraid to die."

This gets a bit of a chuckle out of Vaga, "yeah, guess you don't need to tell me. We've done enough navel-gazing for a lifetime."

"No, no, I'm serious. I've never really been... afraid of dying. As long as I can remember, anyway. As long as I can keep fighting, I'll be willing to do it to the bitter end. What I'm afraid of, if anything terrified even, is losing someone else important because I DON'T risk my life... As long as I don't end up screwing my friends over in the process, I'm at terms with the idea of my own death."

"You really have an iron will, then," Vaga says, closing his eyes, grinning, and shaking his head in a vaguely pretentious way, "one of these days, remind me to scare the shit out of you, just to see it done. Since your death is off the table and I don't feel much like killing the friends of a friend, you got any other weird phobias?"

>A. Not that you know of
>B. You're not discussing this
>C. Why would I tell you if I did?
>D. Surprisingly, yes (specification necessary, don't make it stupid)

And...

>E. Bid Vaga farewell
>F. Stick around

>>42158263
Bull shit. Being afraid but pushing through it is one thing, but being born without fear is Mary sue bullshit

>>42158323
I actually gave it a lot of thought, whether she would be literally fearless or not, when the anon in question brought it up. I figured that she certainly has no fear for her own sake anyway, but perhaps she still blames her laying down her sword against the bandits instead of pulling something back at the very start, and thus being unable to help him in his ensuing fight, for the demise of Lambert, to some extent.

>>42158340
>>C. Why would I tell you if I did?
>F. Stick around

>>42158340
>D. Surprisingly, yes, I used to be kind of apathetic...
>F. Stick around
>>42158348
All i hear is a baby crying about something it doesn't like, Guess what it isn't fucking changing no matter how much you whine and cry, As said before, You don't like it get the fuck out.

>>42158340
>B. You're not discussing this
>F. Stick around

>>42158403
Is apathy a phobia?

>>42158416
Uh maybe? Not having a fear of death isn't really a Phobia either though is it?

>>42158444
Never said it was.

>>42158471
Then maybe reword it so it's not really phobia but something else then?

>>42158397
>>42158409
"I'm not admitting something like that to you. Why would I?"

Vaga flashes another grin, "so there is something."

"I didn't say that."

This turns into more of the petty banter that you and Vaga are accustomed to exchanging, cut off by an abrupt yawn from the wolfman.

"This has been fun, but I think this is where I call it a night. You gonna follow my example?"

>A. Yeah, you're kinda tired
>B. Nope, just tired of Vaga
>C. Say something (specify)
>D. Write-in action

>>42158603
>A. Yeah, you're kinda tired

>>42158603
>A. Yeah, you're kinda tired
>Don't howl at the moon, I'd like to get some sleep.
Sarcastically of course.

>>42158622
Second, It's just to easy to poke fun at Vaga.

>>42158622
>>42158668
>>42158612
"Yeah, same... I'm really starting to feel that last workout."

As he walks off, you say, "don't go howling at the moon, alright? I actually want to sleep."

"Long as you don't sweat all over everything."

You go your separate ways, taking to your tent and passing right out.

How're you feeling the next morning?

>A. Fantastic!
>B. Tired
>C. Sore
>D. Tired and sore

>>42158788
>Alive
As in not dead, Just alive, Not good not bad.

>>42158803
I hear you. Going with this.

>>42158803
Second

>>42158803
>>42158894
>>42158914
You've slept better. You've slept worse. You slept.

Over breakfast, Miles repeats the good news you all knew already. "now, princess Eva should have already informed them that we would be on our way, and I presume that General Corneria has done the same. It's been a pleasure traveling with you all, and none of the Great Miles will forget this."

Devon is talking to Kia about what Rakche is like, Bryce is actually managing to keep Asra around in a conversation, and Gorman is chatting up Laurina, thanking her for lending an axe or two while you were training. Quidel, Vaga's hunnies, and Vaga are just talking shit out over food, and Victoria is sitting by you.

She turns and asks, "since I haven't had the chance to ask all trip long... Is there anything in particular you're looking the most forward to being back to?

>A. I just want to be back with the knights
>B. A person (specify)
>C. The castle is a nice place
>D. Dunno. I've only briefly been in Rakche so far
>E. There was this place Zoe and I would go a lot...
>F. Write-in

>>42159080
>Everyone, All my friends and comrades.
Sadly i have ot pass out now, Seeya.

>>42159096
Seconding this. See you in the next quest thread.

>>42159096
>>42159114
"Honestly, I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at this point. Working at their sides again is going to be... You'll love them, Victoria."

"I'm certain I will, then."

A bit of small talk later, and your party is quickly packed up and on their collective way to the capital of Neir.

Miles and Quidel are the first to explain the party's way into the city, and the first person that you recognize on the way in is Mitchell, noting you and Quidel and saying to himself, "shit, they really made it" before skirting off towards the castle in his usual fashion.

>A. After him!
>B. Stick with the group
>C. Refamiliarize yourself with the town
>D. Write-in?

>>42159302
>>B. Stick with the group

>>42159352
I'll also like to add this.

"Sounds like someone lost a bet!"

>>42159395
How would Ellen know that?

>>42159411
Just a wild assumption and due to his expression.

>>42159449
It still feels a bit metagamey to me.

>>42159474
Then don't add it. Simple as that.

>>42159352
You stay with the group, for the most part, and in time you make it to the castle. Those same two guards from when Byron led you through are keeping watch on the front gate, and the green cavalier himself is discussing something with the duo. Something about baking recipes again, you assume, but you don't actually hear them from where you are/over the sounds of your companions and onlooking civilians.

Since Miles and his crew are leading the pack, Byron notices them first, finally coming within aural range in time for you to hear him say, "Miles, isn't it? It's been... awhile."

The male guard says, "so these are the folks that other princess was talkin' about?"

Byron nods, "yes, several of them have... Quite the presence." It was only a matter of time before he noticed you, considering that Gorman is the only one in the group slightly above you in height. "Anyway, yes, let them in, and treat the little girl with the same respect you would our own prince and princess."

The female guard nods, "alright, Byron, show 'em on in."

As you walk through, the male guard says, "hey, Ellen." Shit, he remembers your name after one meeting. At least you aren't speaking to him long enough to make your lack of remembering him awkward, and in a moment you're in the familiar orange halls of Rakche's castle.

>A. Say something to someone (specify)
>B. Keep quiet
>C. Write-in?

>>42159653
Go teach Nat all about axes.

"You'll just LOVE what I spent the past like two days learning."

>>42159653
>>B. Keep quiet

>>42159653
>B. Keep quiet

>>42159879
>>42159906
Gah, I was already well into a post about >>42159831 before I refreshed and saw these.

>>42159928
Keep on writing it then.

>>42159957
I think I will, considering that the second two posts were... fairly late, especially the third. I really don't like outright going against the votes like this, though.

>>42159831
You take a moment to ask Byron if he's seen Nat or Biff around, having a strange feeling the former might be interested in hearing what you've been up to.

"Last I'd heard, they'd been walking around the courtyard. They're probably still there. Also," he smiles at you, "welcome back, Ellen."

You see him off and your party begins to split, you in particular taking a trip to the one courtyard that isn't used for training. As Byron said, they're there, and you're met with two things in tandem: Nat smiling sweetly and Biff saying, "and the Hero returns, looking mightier than ever!" with an excited flair.

A mere mention of the fact that you'd resumed training under Gorman, learned how to use axes as proper weapons, gets Nat to respond, "...I think I'll do it, then."

>A. Do what?
>B. Good for whatever that is!
>C. Say something else (specify)
>D. Write-in

>>42160025
>B. Good for whatever that is!
>>A. Do what?

>>42160025
>>A. Do what?

>>42160053
>>42160067
"That's great to hear!" you say to Nat, "...er, whatever it is you're going to do, I assume." Another pause. "What're you going to do?"

Nat blinks before saying, "I was. Considering becoming a War Cleric with this guiding ring King Drasma gave me. I've been thinking seriously about whether I should ever since talking about it with Zoe."

Ah, that's good, that's good, you respond... Hey, wait a minute, she mentioned Zoe. How is Zoe?

"Ah, she's been wondering the same about you since you vanished," Biff says, "many a woeful night has taken a dramatic turn, and she's sworn to reveal something or another upon your reuniting."

>A. What's that now?
>B. You can guess what that is (specify assumption)
>C. Talk about something else (specify topic)
>D. Write-in

>>42160185
>>A. What's that now?

>>42160261
"And what's that, do you think?"

"Alas, we can only speculate, and you'll be the first to know besides her..."

Nat is listening without saying much, but she does still smile more than usual.

>A. Mention Laurina
>B. Mention Victoria
>C. Don't do either of those things
>D. Say something (specify)

And...

>E. Excuse yourself to reveal yourself to someone else
>F. Stick around in the courtyard

>>42160359
>>A. Mention Laurina
>F. Stick around in the courtyard

How do we teach our loyale CLERIC about the wonder of thine AXES if we doth not stay?

>>42160359
>>A. Mention Laurina
>B. Mention Victoria
>F. Stick around in the courtyard

>>42160400
>>42160427
"Also, uh. Laurina is with the Great Miles now."

Biff freezes mid-gesticulation, "well, isn't that something!"

Nat blinks loudly, saying to her boyfriend, "are you alright."

"Ahaha, yes, absolutely! Pausing like this is simply... Simple!"

With her mood indiscernible, Nat says, "okay."

"Also, er... Duchess Victoria was also-"

"Ah, yes, yes, we were informed of that one! Today's reunions, I daresay, are a blast to the past... straight into my temples!"

After figuring that Biff will be more alright than he lets on, you discuss the usage of an axe with Nat, mostly parroting Gorman's advice. She mentions that she's actually been working on building up her strength in recent times. "Even if I didn't decide what I just did, it would be. Useful to be less of a twig. Apparently the guiding ring can teach its users the basics of a newfound skill, but it is. Spotty about how well it does so. I'm also learning a bit the old fashioned way just in case."

A moment later, a girl with a dark complexion and red hair happens through, saying, "I couldn't help but notice a very built-looking knight come in with my sister." She glances down quickly, then back up, "eight fingers... Yeah, you're the Ellen she name-dropped." Grinning, she gets a bit closer, "sorry your first visit to my homeland didn't exactly go that well, but hey, that's why Kia and I left!"

>A. And who are you?
>B. Princess Eva, I assume
>C. You seem awfully relaxed
>D. Write-in

>>42160572
>>C. You seem awfully relaxed

>>42160572
>B. Princess Eva, I assume

>>42160572
I am sincerely disappoint that we did not learn magic in all honesty. It would have been cool as fuck.

And no, I'm not the one anon who voted for it earlier. My only votes so far have been for teaching Nat all about axes and Riga seeming awfully relaxed.

>>42160572
>>B. Princess Eva, I assume

>>42160742
>>42160601
>>42160635
"So, I, uh, assume you're princess Eva."

"The one and only! Hey, thanks a bunch for helping the Great Miles out with your pals. I mean, of course I knew they could do it, which is why I gave 'em the job, but apparently you made their jobs much easier and even more successful!"

Kia talked about her a lot, but the detail that seemed to strike you the most before meeting her was Kia's mentioning her sister's preemptive attraction to Prince Garrus.

You wonder if that's still the case, but don't exactly feel like asking. Besides, now the most striking detail about her is how long she can keep talking, yet remain worth listening to.

Also, another thing you vocally make note of, "you're very... casual, and relaxed."

She's not in the suit of armor you have personally never seen her in (but she was introduced in), but instead something that clearly looks like it was borrowed from Salia's also-casual clothes.

Literally. It's a tad small on her.

Anyway, she laughs off your comment and nods, "yeah, I suppose. Maybe it's because I really never spent all that much time in any castles. As soon as I could ride a wyvern, I was out of Gravern Keep and off doing... Things I'm not proud of, but that's another story I'm on the opposite side of now!"

>A. You've got time
>B. Excuse yourself. This is a bit overwhelming
>C. Change the subject (specify)
>D. Write-in

>>42160827
>>D. Write-in
"Doing things you're not proud of? I hear that. So, what are you planning on doing now that you're on our side now."

Were I to run another Fire Emblem Quest (not necessarily using its exact mechanics -- for instance, I think instead of using a rigidly defined class structure with definite weapons, I would tend towards having a base group (like lances for Knights or some shit) and then basically giving players options about what to add to your skills when you decide to rank up, given what your options are at that point. Potentially, it would mean waiting for longer would be more beneficial than just waiting until the main character hit some kind of 'cap' -- for instance, he could easily be able to promote, but decide not to, wanting some form of magic yet inaccessible, or something along those lines.

Thought?

>>42160905
Try not to make it too complicated otherwise you're going to have a lot of bookkeeping to do.

>>42160905
>for instance, he could easily be able to promote, but decide not to, wanting some form of magic yet inaccessible, or something along those lines.

I think that was how mages worked in general in Gaiden.

Overall though, it sounds like... Well, ideas aren't always the best indicator of a quest's direction of success. I think it sounds like it could do well, and might even suggest divorcing the concept from Fire Emblem so people who aren't fans of the series are more willing to pick it up if you make it different enough.

Aside from that, what >>42160933 said. The behind-the-scenes mechanics of Generically really don't run that deep, and only a few "big" plot and other landmarks are thought up ahead of time.

>>42161002
>might even suggest divorcing the concept from Fire Emblem so people who aren't fans of the series are more willing to pick it up if you make it different enough.
Honestly, I think you should do this. People will be interested in it even if it isn't a part of a franchise. We got Princess Guard quest to be an epic despite it being original.

>>42160898
"Doing things you're not proud of, eh? This crowd's all been there."

Biff and Eva solemnly nod, while Nat blinks. She really hasn't, but doesn't feel like commenting on this fact.

"So, what's your plan now that you and your sister are safely in enemy territory?"

"Well, my plan is whatever Antiman or Garrus or Yvette or whoever's in charge right now is planning. I'll do what we need to do for now... Maybe dabble in world domination after we've kicked my family's ass." She laughs warmly again.

>A. Mention "Aunt Lexi" to Eva
>B. You're not sure if it's cool to talk about that yet, let alone in front of Biff and Nat
>C. Bid Eva, Biff, and Nat farewell for now
>D. Write-in

>>42161101
>>D. Write-in
"Ha! Defeat a tyrant only to replace it with another. Just perfect!"

>C. Bid Eva, Biff, and Nat farewell for now

>>42161236
"Sounds perfect, replacing an old bastard we can't stand with a newer, hipper tyrant we're in good with!"

The three of you share a laugh over this (Nat smirks a bit), though ultimately you part ways with the plucky princess and your pals.

You wander the castle a bit, cross paths with Stefyn (if you're wondering how that went, he went over to greet you, you shot him a look, and he backed away saying "never mind..."), and a few minutes later, you hear a familiar voice from behind you. "Ellen!"

You turn around and spot a pegasus knight, absolutely beaming. "Good seeing you, Zoe."

"I'm so... It's hard to contain, but I'm so happy to see you again. And... And you look better than ever, I daresay!"

"Yeah, I've been... training nonstop since we left Elza Oasis. I can even throw axes around now."

"Good to hear!"

After a few moments of catching up in the hall, your dear friend falters a bit, clearing her throat before asking, "er, did you maybe wanna... Go for a ride on Poseidon or something, for old time's sake, maybe? I'm sure my pegasus will be pleased to see you, too!"

>A. You'd love to
>B. Some other time
>C. Say something else (specify)
>D. Not particularly, no
>E. Write-in

>>42161354
>A. You'd love to

>>42161354
>A. You'd love to

>>42161354
>>A. You'd love to
"Someone said you had news."

File: PegknightDS.png (3 KB, 72x73)

3 KB PNG

>>42161383
>>42161386
>>42161425
"Sounds great! Er, someone said you had news, though. Does this have anything to do with that?"

Leading you down the halls to the pegasus stables, she gets a bit flustered, saying, "well, uh, yeah, I guess... I mean, I do still want to talk and hang out, but we will get to my 'news.'"

You nod, and soon enough the two of you are by Poseidon's side. You wonder briefly if the poor winged horse can even take your combined weight now that you've bulked up, but as you seat yourself beside Zoe the concern proves moot. Her pegasus flies with ease even with your increased muscle mass.

The two of you end up resting on some cliff overlooking Rakche. The day has begun to move into the onset of twilight.

"Beautiful view, hmm?" Zoe looks out over the city, sitting beside you.

>A. Absolutely
>B. You've seen better
>C. Cut to the chase, please
>D. Write-in dialogue

>>42161528
>>D. Write-in dialogue
Well worth the effort of breaking out of an underground prison, that's for sure.

>>42161528
>>A. Absolutely
>>42161569
This

>>42161569
>>42161572
"It's... wonderful. Certainly worth the effort of breaking out of an underground prison to get to see."

You smile, she laughs, you share a look.

She says, "was this all you came for? Back in the hole now?"

Another set of chuckles, and then, "nah, though, I came back for you, and for everyone else..."

"Knew how badly some of us missed you, hm?"

>A. You had a suspicion
>B. It couldn't have been that bad
>C. People missed you?
>D. Write-in

>>42161687
>A. You had a suspicion

>>42161687
>They probably missed me as much as they missed the others.

>>42161717
>>42161765
"Well, I... may have had a suspicion. Certainly missed quite a few people myself."

"Really now? One of those was me, right?"

"Of course!"

"I... Is it selfish to be glad to hear that?"

"No, no. Why?"

She pauses again, looking a bit flustered, before starting up, "well, I... I guess I've just been thinking about you very much, even with all that's happened. There was something I'd been meaning to tell you before you'd even disappeared, but... But I'd never thought it was a good time, figured I was rushing, that maybe I was confused, but... Cheryl helped me get my head together, and you disappearing... It helped me realize that there's no time like the present!"

>A. Don't leave me in suspense
>B. You get where she's going now (specify reaction)
>C. Write-in dialogue

>>42161873
>>A. Don't leave me in suspense

>>42161873
>A. Don't leave me in suspense
Yes

>>42161892
>>42161911
"Don't leave me in suspense, Zoe!' You're starting to get antsy.

"Just... promise you won't hold it against me, however you react."

"Yeah, yeah, I promise!"

Again, she sighs, still visibly flushed, and finally the words leave her mouth, "Ellen, I think I'm in love with you."

Immediately, she recoils and looks away, as though preemptively expecting rejection. She mutters, "you at least have the right to know..."

>A. You need to think about this
>B. You feel the same
>C. You don't. Let your friend down gently
>D. Cliffhanger. Let the next thread work this shit out
>E. Write-in?

>>42162026
>C. You don't. Let your friend down gently
these BUFF genes need to go somewhere

>>42162026
>A. You need to think about this

>>42162026
>A. You need to think about this
It's a ship I support but I feel like just saying yes it a bit fast and ooc

>>42162067
>>42162080
"I... I need time to think about this." You look away, before adding, "sorry, I mean... You've been waiting to confess to me for this long, only for me to tell you to wait longer for a response, and-"

"No, no, I understand!" Zoe pats your shoulder, "you just got back, and I sprung this on you, and... Yeah, take your time."

"Alright."

"Do you... want a ride back?"

"No, I'm good. I think I'll stay awhile longer."

"Okay, Ellen..." She gets onto Poseidon before saying, "we'll still be able to be friends after this... right?"

You nod a bit, and she flies off.

>To be continued next thread

Thanks for playing as always, guys. You can follow us on twitter/check out our ask.fm, both qmgrandflocto, and I'll be around in the thread for awhile to talk shit regardless.

>>42162165
Thanks for running, and goodnight

>>42162206
Night.

Also, for those curious, Corneria did have a genuine reason to have such faith in Ellen's magical potential. Like, backstory-wise.

Ellen's unintentional avoidance of any plot thread that might lead to learning certain things about herself is actually pretty funny to me.

>>42162233
Heritage?

>>42162246
She has a bit of a suspicion based off what she does know about Ellen and things you don't know about Corneria.

If Ellen never finds out the deal by the end of her journey, I'll reveal it myself. It all depends on the course certain upcoming events take.

>>42162303
So if you're still here, When did Zoe come to the conclusion she's in love with Ellen?